Last Updated on October 4, 2025 by recipeinspire
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Harvest Salad with Apples, Pecans & Cranberries: 7 Reasons Why It’s a Fall Favorite
Are you craving a cozy autumn meal? Dive into our Harvest Salad with Apples, Pecans & Cranberries, a delicious blend perfect for fall. With its vibrant flavors and crunchy textures, this salad not only embodies the essence of the season but also offers an array of health benefits that make it a go-to choice as the leaves change color. Let’s explore seven compelling reasons why this salad should be a staple on your fall menu!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need for this vibrant salad, bursting with flavor and nutritional value:
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or your favorite blend)
- 1 large apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work beautifully)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup pecans, toasted
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (or goat cheese for a richer flavor)
- ¼ cup balsamic vinaigrette (store-bought or homemade)
Substitution Ideas:
Feel free to get creative! Substitute walnuts for pecans, use blue cheese instead of feta, or opt for sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.
Timing
This delightful dish can be prepped in just 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy choice for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. That’s about 30% less time than the average autumn recipe, allowing you to enjoy more moments with friends and family.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing your mixed greens thoroughly and drying them. This way, they’ll form a fresh base for your salad. Add some excitement by tearing the greens into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This simple step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
Step 3: Chop the Apple
Core and slice your chosen apple into thin, bite-sized wedges. For a beautiful presentation, leave the skin on!
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, apple slices, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and red onion. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the feta or goat cheese on top, allowing it to melt slightly into the salad as you serve.
Step 6: Serve Fresh
Enjoy your salad immediately, while the greens are crisp and the flavors are vibrant!
Nutritional Information
This serving of Harvest Salad with Apples, Pecans & Cranberries is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Protein: 6g
- Healthy Fats: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Vitamin A: 40% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 15% of the DV
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to elevate the nutrition of your salad? Consider these options:
- Replace dried cranberries with fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a boost of antioxidants.
- Use a homemade vinaigrette using olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and mustard for a fresh and tangy dressing.
- Avoid cheese if vegan, or substitute with nutritional yeast to gain a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing the salad with grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier meal. It also complements a warm soup, such as butternut squash or pumpkin, perfectly capturing the essence of fall. For a more rustic approach, serve it alongside crusty bread or whole grain crackers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Toasting Nuts: Failing to toast the pecans can result in a one-dimensional flavor.
- Overdressing: Adding too much vinaigrette can cause your salad to become soggy. Drizzle and toss gently.
- Choosing the Wrong Apples: Opt for varieties that maintain their texture, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, for a crunch in every bite.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness of the greens. Enjoy within 1-2 days for the best quality.
Print
Harvest Salad with Apples, Pecans & Cranberries
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Harvest Salad with apples, pecans, and cranberries is the ultimate fall side dish. Fresh, crunchy, and full of seasonal flavors, it’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any autumn meal.
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1 Honeycrisp or Gala apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Place salad greens in a large bowl. Top with sliced apple, dried cranberries, feta or goat cheese, and toasted pecans.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing seasonal salad.
Notes
To keep apples from browning, toss them lightly with lemon juice before adding to the salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: harvest salad, thanksgiving salad, apple cranberry salad, pecan salad, fall salad recipe
Conclusion
The Harvest Salad with Apples, Pecans & Cranberries is not just a fall favorite; it’s a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits that aligns perfectly with the season’s spirit. Don’t let fall pass by without savoring every crunchy bite. We invite you to try this recipe today and share your thoughts or modifications!
FAQs
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Just skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative, and you have a fantastic vegan dish!
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can pre-chop the vegetables and store them in separate containers. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.
What dressing pairs well with this salad?
Besides balsamic vinaigrette, you can try a honey mustard dressing or a simple lemon olive oil mixture for a refreshing twist.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Just store the ingredients separately until you’re ready to enjoy, and assemble as needed for maximum freshness!
Ready to make your own take on this fall favorite? Try out the Harvest Salad with Apples, Pecans & Cranberries and experience the perfect blend of flavors and health benefits!
